FC Clacton boss Andy Taylor is “hopeful but realistic” over the future of sought-after defender Matt Cripps.

The 18-year-old has been a pivotal figure and is among the favourites to scoop the club’s end-of-season silverware, at their presentation evening on June 1.

Taylor knows there is every chance his centre-half and vice-captain will move on during the course of the summer.

However, in the meantime, he admits he would love to keep him at the Rush Green Bowl.

“We’ll have to wait and see what happens” he said.

For the full story, see this week's Gazette.